Fred Heptinstall named as new CEO North America for Polymer Logistics

Polymer Logistics has appointed industry veteran Fred Heptinstall as CEO North America Business. He reports to Gideon Feiner, CEO of Polymer Logistics, effective July 01, 2016.

“The RPC business in the United States is a very strategic part of Polymer Logistics and its growth plans over the next several years. The addition of Fred Heptinstall is another sign of our continued commitment to our growing business,” said Feiner. “Fred is a strong and proven industry leader and an ideal fit to lead our business in North America. He will add tremendous value to our organization, customers and retail partners.”

Heptinstall brings a wealth of domestic and international executive experience in the packaging and fresh food industries to the new position. He held top management positions at industry leaders IFCO Systems, a Brambles company, as well as Chiquita Brands International and Mars Inc. While president of IFCO, Heptinstall is credited with leading the expansion of the Reusable Plastic Container (RPC) industry in North America to a recognized and preferred packaging solution for fresh produce.

In addition to his career experience, Heptinstall has been an active contributor to various industry associations. He currently serves on the board of directors of the United Fresh Produce Association and previously served as Chairman of the Reusable Packaging Association. He is credited with transitioning it from a limited coalition to a full-time association with successful growth and service to the industry. Also, he previously served as Chairman of United Fresh Produce Association, Chairman of International Banana Association and has been actively involved in other industry organizations, including the PMA, PBH and OTA. The Packer named Heptinstall as one of the top 25 most influential people in produce in 2014.

“In the last two years, Polymer Logistics has introduced the wood grain RPC and expanded into new categories, and now is investing in two new state-of-the-art wash facilities to provide coverage throughout the continent. It’s a very exciting time to join the company, and I’m looking forward to joining the team as CEO for the North America business,” said Heptinstall.

Polymer Logistics’ extensive range of returnable transport, storage, and display products includes collapsible bins, folding, nesting and stackable crates, together with reusable dollies and pallets. These offer substantial costs benefits, are more environmentally friendly than traditional one-way transit packaging, and are robust enough to withstand the rigorous demands of retail supply chain logistics for many years. Polymer Logistics’ most recent innovation is the wood grain RPC, which brings an upscale look to stores and drives sales and shopper engagement.